“Design is directed toward human beings. To design is to solve human problems by identifying them and executing the best solution.” -Ivan Chermayeff

Are you a designer looking for other designers with a social conscience? The Designers Accord is a global coalition, across 100 countries, made up of over 150 000 members, consisting of designers, educators, researchers, engineers, and corporate leaders, working together to create positive environmental and social impact. Examples of corporate members include Adobe and Autodesk. The Designers Accord is a tax exempt 501(c)(3) organization.

The vision of the Designers Accord is to integrate the principles of sustainable design into all practices and production methods. It hopes to encourage the sharing of best practices so that designers can innovate more efficiently.

Any designer, firm, organization or individual can join for free. Joining simply requires contacting the Designers Accord through their website and announcing a desire to join. Members make a moral commitment to incorporate the values of the Designers Accord, engage conversations about social and environmental impacts with every client, and integrate sustainable alternatives in their work.

There are 3 different types of membership options:

Adopter (design firms, corporations, educational institutions) An organized group within the creative community who pledges to work through the guidelines.

Supporter (artists, freelance designers, students) An individual who is making the guidelines relevant to their personal practice. Like adopters, they are expected to supporters to promote the movement within their communities.

Endorser (organizations) Organization that adds awareness to the cause, and can provide infrastructure for education and outreach programs.

More information can be found at: www.designersaccord.org